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Phoenix sign GB defenceman

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Manchester Phoenix have signed Great Britain defenceman Mark Thomas from Elite League champions Sheffield Steelers.

The 31-year-old won three EIHL titles, three play-off championships and the Knockout Cup during a decade in Yorkshire.

He returns to Manchester after starting his top-level career with the Phoenix in 2003, since when he moved to London Racers and then the Steelers.

Thomas is also mainstay of the GB defensive set-up, winning two silver medals and a bronze medal at the world championships.

Manchester Phoenix Head Coach, Tony Hand, is delighted to have secured the experienced defenceman’s signature.

He said: “Mark Thomas has played at the top level of British ice hockey for almost all his career, and is a fantastic player. To have him join us for next season will lift us to a whole new level. We are looking to win back the English Premier League title and Mark will certainly bring us closer to that goal. I have known him for a long time and he has that winning mentality. Next season will be a big test for us as a club. I want everyone to pull together and prove that Manchester Phoenix deserve to be winning titles. That includes players, management and most importantly, the fans.”

Thomas was one of the first players signed by Phoenix owner Neil Morris, when the club was formed from the ashes of Manchester Storm in 2003.

“I have watched Mark’s career develop since I watched him play as a youngster many years ago,” Mr Morris said."He is a local guy, with family in the area, so this will feel like a real homecoming. He is the sort of guy who gives everything for his team and I can’t wait to see him back in Phoenix colours. It is kind of ironic that after we started this club with Mark in Manchester Arena, we are now preparing for a return to the city centre. The future for this club is incredibly bright and next season is going to be memorable for all of us.”